In San Sebastián (or "Donostia" in the local Euskara language), an elegant and prosperous Basque town on Spain's northern coast, a stream of shoppers, tourists, business folks, dog walkers and well-coiffed residents steadily file down picturesque streets, and yet a mellow hum pervades even the busiest intersections.

As the city with the second highest Michelin stars per capita in the world, San Sebastián has gained global buzz for its gastronomical riches–and rightly so. Yet, you'll discover a bounty of treasures here that extend well beyond the palate.

Stroll the beach near San Sebastián's Old Town — Photo courtesy of Corinne Whiting

Whether you land here by serendipitous accident or as part of a carefully-hatched plan, chances are you'll swiftly elevate this welcoming destination to the top of your list. And we're not the only ones who've taken notice, as San Sebastián has been designated European Capital of Culture 2016.

Find below some ideas on how to best enjoy this Spanish gem - relishing highlights ranging from savory to sweet and sassy to sleek.

In its guest rooms and downstairs viewing room, Astoria7 pays homage to the annual San Sebastián International Film Festival — Photo courtesy of Astoria7

1) Stay like a star. As any seasoned traveler knows, getting oneself properly situated carries great importance. Hotel Astoria7 boasts a conveniently walkable address in a nice part of town, landing guests just minutes from the bus station. (San Sebastián-Donostia is about an hour-long bus ride from the Bilbao airport.)

The sleek boutique hotel offers 102 rooms that pay homage to actors and directors who've graced the spotlight of the annual International Film Festival of San Sebastián. Aside from the hotel's quirky and creative ambiance, guests enjoy top-notch amenities, friendly service and its prime location.

During the pleasant walk into the city center and charming Old Town (a 20 to 25-minute stroll), grab breakfast at one of countless bakeries where San Sebastián's proximity to France becomes deliciously evident.

At casual cafes like Ogi Berri, grab a croissant, coffee and zumo (fresh juice) for just a few Euro; closer to the hotel, pick up local delicacies at gorgeous, upscale market Don Serapio Kultura Gastronomia (think cheeses, meats, fresh produce, chocolate, etc.)

2) Do the (tapas) crawl. After all, isn't this the main reason you've come? Make the rounds to enjoy delectable, bite-sized pintxos (Basque-style tapas). Of the many venues we visited, the old-school, traditional bars proved some of our favorites.

Inside the bustling scene at Atari, happy patrons snacked on piparrak (Basque peppers) and croquettes, among other tasty gems, while other revelers took their beverages alfresco to be enjoyed on the cathedral steps outside.

Tip: To get even more adventurous, consider ordering "off-piste," veering away from items listed on the menu posted on the wall.

San Sebastián proves a feast for the eyes (and all senses) — Photo courtesy of Corinne Whiting

3) Arrive hungry and thirsty. These people know how to celebrate the good things in life. Savor the drinks of the region, from local wines to txakolí (cha-koh-LEE) - the local sparkling, white wine. Bartenders pour the high-acid, low-alcohol beverage from a theatrically-high height, allegedly forcing air into the wine and creating a light froth on top, revitalizing the wine.

Pinxtos is the name of the game in this city — Photo courtesy of Corinne Whiting

4) Surf's up. Check out another of this town’s surprising identities: surf Mecca. Wander over to Zurriola Beach to watch the pros - or try the sport for yourself with lessons.

Explore the areas of Sagüés, on the Paseo de la Zurriola, and the district of Gros, packed with bars, pubs, restaurants and shops geared toward the surfing crowd.

Directly across from the beach, grab a drink (hot or cold) from Khaki Campbell, a chic coffee shop-meets-wine bar. Think mellow music, sleek, dark woods and modern, industrial touches plus a menu that includes quiches, wraps and beverages from lattes to local beers.

6) Treat Yourself. If you've come to indulge, you’re in the right place. True foodies will be thrilled to learn that–of the seven 3-Michelin star restaurants in Spain–three can be found in San Sebastián: Akelarre, Arzak and Martín Berasategui.

For upscale pinxtos, Bar Zeruko ranks high on the “wow” factor, thanks to beautifully-crafted creations that are as beautiful to ogle as they are to eat.

Indulge in dramatic dining at Ni Neu, which means “I Myself” in Basque, and is located inside the Kursaa.

For a special nightcap, sip a cocktail at the Maria Christina, where even the simple gin and tonic is allegedly out of this world.

7) Bust a move. Offset some of those delightful calories you've ingested by joining in on this active city's love for the Great Outdoors.

Take advantage of citywide cycling lanes, seaside running paths and cliffside hiking trails, or soak in San Sebastián's hosted sporting events throughout the year that range from marathons and horse races to trainera regattas (involving rowing boats originally used for fishing).

8) A perfect playa. Walk along the golden sands of the downtown beach, bookended by twin peaks, watching hearty swimmers push off into the turquoise waters of the bay of La Concha.

Stroll the elegant promenade, gelato in hand, or relax by the spinning carousel.

Grab a table at beachside Café de la Concha, or truly unwind at La Perla del Oceano, a health center and spa that makes use of seawater to offer "the best [relaxing] therapies and body toning programmes."

Grab a seat in the plaza, and simply take it all in — Photo courtesy of Corinne Whiting

The city regularly hosts annual events honoring the arts - from the International Jazz Festival and Quincena Musical to the Surf Film Festival and, of course, the San Sebastián International Film Festival, considered the most important such event in the Spanish-speaking world.

San Sebastián's architecture mixes old with the new — Photo courtesy of Corinne Whiting

10) Field trips. Sure, you could spend countless days exploring the pinxtos circuit here, or - if you're in the region long enough - consider renting a car or joining an organized tour to explore beyond city limits.

Enjoy an agrotourism adventure by staying in a traditional caserio (country house), get acquainted with the delicious wines of the Rioja Alaversa region, savor the stupendous art on display at The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, or pop over to Biarritz (less than an hour by car) to spend an afternoon in France.

No matter how you choose to explore this tremendous town, we promise you'll leave feeling relaxed, content and fully sated–though still hungry for more of this beautiful Basque way of life.